Month: September 2025

From October 5 to 11, the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) will celebrate National Fire Prevention Week. This has been annually observed for over 100 years. The first weekly celebration was in 1922. Officially proclaimed a national observance by President Calvin Coolidge in 1925. This celebration has continued yearly since that time. 

This year’s theme is “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” NFPA is providing important education to everyone regarding the purchase, charging, and recycling of Lithium-Ion batteries. You can find educational materials on their website to help with a successful campaign. The focus is on preventing fires caused by these batteries. There are three steps that NFPA is focusing on this year. 

Charge into Fire Safety:

• Buy products only from the manufacturer. When buying products that use Lithium-Ion batteries, look for those safety certification markings such as UL, ETL, or CSA. If you see these markings, you know that they meet important safety standards.

• Safely charge your devices. Your product will usually come with cords. Always use the cords that came with your product. When new cords or chargers are needed, always purchase directly from the manufacturer or one that is approved by the manufacturer. Charge on a hard surface. Avoid charging on blankets or under pillows; allow air to flow around your device when charging. Don’t overcharge. When fully charged, remove from the charger. Don’t keep your charger on your device overnight.
• Recycle batteries properly. Lithium-ion batteries should not go in the regular trash or recycling bins. Check with your local town as to where to dispose of Lithium-ion batteries. They can usually give you information on this. Visit call2recycling.org if your town doesn’t offer recycling options for Lithium-Ion batteries.

Community Involvement

Local fire departments and schools are participating in this year’s National Fire Prevention Week. Fire departments will hold open houses, educational seminars, and materials for kids and parents. Locations will display how to use a fire extinguisher. 

Schools will discuss the importance of knowing how to charge and recycle their Lithium-Ion batteries. Children will have the opportunity to print out color and activity pages to work on and learn. Schools can go to the website for additional school-age materials.

Community groups will hold educational sessions along with fire departments to bring all this information to different community groups.

Join the National Fire Prevention Association in this wonderful celebration of education. Help them by continuing this very beneficial program by making this year’s event a success.

Professionals suggest that an annual Chimney sweep and inspection be conducted. When a problem arises, the best plan is to tackle it as soon as possible. This will cost you much less than if you let the damage to the fireplace and bricks go on too long.

Schedule your inspection or cleaning soon by calling Northeastern Chimney. We service all of Hartford, Tolland, and Litchfield Counties. All our chimney technicians are trained and qualified. We are active in the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG). 

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This post first appeared on https://www.mychimney.com

Between rising costs and a potentially harsh New England winter on the horizon, many families are tightening their belts and looking for ways to make the most of what they have. From grocery bills that make you wince to heating costs that keep climbing, everything is getting more expensive! But here’s the silver lining that smart homeowners are discovering: your home isn’t just shelter – it’s your sanctuary, your biggest investment, and right now, your best refuge from an uncertain world. While you can’t control inflation or the weather forecast, you can absolutely control how safe, comfortable, and enjoyable your home becomes.

When Going Out Gets Expensive, Staying In Gets Precious

Let’s be honest – a family dinner out that used to cost $60 now easily runs $100 or more. Movie tickets, concerts, even a simple coffee shop visit all feel like major budget decisions these days. But what if we told you this economic shift could actually be a blessing in disguise for your family?

Across New England, families are rediscovering the lost art of truly enjoying their homes. That fireplace that maybe got used a few times last winter – it’s becoming the centerpiece of family game nights, romantic evenings, and cozy weekend mornings with coffee and a good book. A crackling fire provides something no expensive restaurant can offer – genuine warmth, both literally and figuratively, that brings families together.

Think about it: for the cost of one evening out, you can have your chimney professionally inspected and swept, ensuring dozens of memorable nights by the fire all winter long. Your living room transforms from just another room into your family’s favorite gathering spot. The kids put down their devices, couples reconnect by the fireplace, and grandparents have that perfect spot to read stories to little ones. When staying in becomes your new entertainment strategy, you want that experience to be impeccable.

Protect What Matters Most

In today’s economic climate, every financial decision feels magnified. That’s exactly why smart homeowners are shifting their thinking from reactive to proactive when it comes to home maintenance. Consider this sobering reality: while you’re worrying about your monthly budget, a small chimney problem that could be fixed today for a few hundred dollars could easily become a multi thousand-dollar nightmare by spring.

We’ve seen it countless times – families who skip their annual chimney maintenance to save money, only to face emergency repairs when water damage from winter storms compromises their chimney structure.

But here’s what’s encouraging: your home is likely one of the few stable investments you have right now. While your 401k fluctuates and gas prices swing wildly, maintaining your home’s value is something relatively within your control. Every dollar spent on proper maintenance doesn’t just prevent problems – it actively protects and often increases your home’s value. A well-maintained chimney and fireplace can add thousands to your home’s worth, while a damaged or unsafe one can be a major red flag for potential buyers if you ever decide to sell.

New England Weather Waits for No One

Living in New England means you’re no stranger to Mother Nature’s mood swings. One day it’s 70 degrees, the next you’re scraping ice off your windshield. But this year feels different, doesn’t it? Weather patterns seem more intense, storms more unpredictable, and temperature swings more dramatic. Your chimney and masonry work harder than ever to protect your home from these extremes.

Those beautiful brick chimneys that give New England homes their character. They’re taking a beating from freeze-thaw cycles that can crack mortar, shift bricks, and create pathways for water damage. Ice dams that form on roofs can back water up into chimney areas, causing damage that might not show up until months later. And those picturesque nor’easters we see in holiday movies? They’re driving wind and moisture into even the smallest chimney openings, creating conditions for structural problems.

The Smart Investment Strategy for Uncertain Times

Here’s what savvy New England homeowners are figuring out: in times of economic uncertainty, the best investment strategy isn’t complicated – it’s taking care of what you already own.

Professional chimney maintenance isn’t an expense – it’s an insurance policy that pays dividends in safety, comfort, and peace of mind. It’s the difference between confidently firing up your heat or fireplace on the first cold night and wondering if that strange smell means you have a problem. It’s the difference between enjoying your home as a warm refuge and constantly worrying about potential dangers lurking in systems you can’t see.

At Best Chimney, we’ve been serving New England families since 1989, through economic ups and downs, brutal winters, and everything in between. We understand that every dollar counts right now, and that’s exactly why we’re so passionate about helping you make smart decisions about your home. Because when times are tough, when the weather gets harsh, and when the world feels uncertain, there’s nothing more valuable than a warm, safe, secure place to call home – a place where your family can thrive no matter what’s happening outside your door.

Let us help you turn your house into the sanctuary your family deserves

The post Weathering New England: Why Your Home is Your Best Investment Right Now appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

Welcome to September where you’re not sure if you should wear a jacket or a pair of shorts. The seasons are beginning to transition and the warm Fall breeze will soon lose its strength and submit to cooler weather. Simply take sitting on the couch, near the fireplace. Regardless if its wood burning or gas, cool air makes its way down the chimney and into the fireplace, which ultimately comes into the home. It gives you that chilly feeling and you start to wonder why is cold air coming from the chimney. Let’s take a closer look.

Cold Air Coming from the Chimney

Cold air coming from the chimney can be an unpleasant experience, especially when it’s right after the summer heat. We’re just never ready to go back to the cold. But when that cold breeze hits, the first thing you wonder is ‘where is the cold air coming from. The chimney?” It can be something quite simple to fix, or it can be something more.

1. Chimney Damper

Did you forget to close the chimney damper? This first needs to be addressed as it is the most common issue. So, check that first! If you forgot to close the chimney damper, your problem may be solved. But if you still feel a cold breeze…

Call Superior Chimney at 877-244-6349. We’ll check the condition of the chimney damper. Sometimes the chimney damper can be stuck or no longer sealing properly. If the chimney damper needs to be replaced, our chimney technicians will show you pictures of the chimney damper, confirm the issue and recommend a solution.

2. Chimney Cap

Another reason for cold air coming in the chimney is either a missing chimney cap or a damaged chimney cap. As we know, when a chimney cap has problems, everything suffers. The chimney cap does the job of protecting the chimney opening or the flue from downdrafts. If you stand outside and look up at the chimney, make sure there is a chimney cap. If the chimney cap is not on straight, then it may need to be repaired or replaced. If the chimney cap is non-existent, then a new chimney cap needs to be installed.

3. Chimney Flue Liner

A chimney flue liner is a great way to control backdrafts, or reduce / eliminate cold air coming into your home. Some homes still have clay tiles. Although it helped back in the day, clay tiles do deteriorate over time. If you don’t have a chimney flue liner, it is best to get one. Here’s a quick list of benefits to a chimney flue liner:

Now that you know the 3 Ways you can control the cold air coming into your home, have a chimney technician come check it out to ensure you’ll have a warm and safe Fall and Winter season. Contact us today at 877-244-6349 to schedule your appointment.

This post first appeared on https://www.superiorchimney.net

Many young homeowners either have been told or believe that since I have a gas fireplace, there’s no need to sweep it. That is a false. Plain and simple. There are many ways you can hurt yourself, family and home by not following the recommendation of the National Fire Protection Association and the Chimney Safety Institute of America. What do they say? Whether you use or never use a wood burning or gas fireplace, it must be swept once per year. Why? Let’s discover the risk factors together.

Risk #1 Blockages and Poor Ventilation

It may seem like there’s nothing going on in the fireplace, but there’s a lot of activity that you won’t see. The volatility of wind in Chicago is undeniable. This causes leaves and debris to fly around landing in the chimney. Next, with Fall upon us, raccoons squirrels birds bats and other critters are finding a warmer place to camp for the Winter, and your chimney looks pretty good. Blocked by the wind and cold, the fireplace is a good place to sleep for the season.

Not only are these blockages dangerous, but carbon monoxide (CO) can back up into your home instead to going up the chimney and outside of your home.

Risk #2 Carbon Monoxide

Did you know that gas fireplaces produce carbon monoxide? Without a clean and clear vent, carbon monoxide continues to build up inside of your home. What are the side effects? This can lead to dizziness, headaches and feeling sick to the stomach. This can be a serious problem if not caught in time.

Risk #3 Damages!

If the fireplace and chimney goes for extended periods of time without servicing, moisture can build up inside of the chimney causing damage and a big repair job. But let’s not forget that without good ventilation, the airflow again gets restricted. Now you’ll be stuck with your gas fireplace shutting down or even overheating.

Risk #4 Potential for Fire

Most times when you purchase a home, someone else lived in it. We don’t ask their habits, we just hope everything works. Before you start that fireplace, do you know if it was used? Do you know if it was a wood burning or gas fireplace? Was it always used in that way? If you don’t know the answers to these questions, it’s time for a fireplace sweep & inspection.

Here are some warning signs that you have a potential problem:

• The smell of gas
• A hint of burning smells
• Moisture on the glass fireplace doors
• Smoky smell
• Headaches, dizziness
• Carbon Monoxide detector goes off
• The discovery of debris
• Efflorescence or white color staining
• Having trouble keeping the fireplace lit
• Sooting or irregular flames

Contact Superior Chimney today at 877-244-6349. So, when you hear someone say, I have a gas fireplace, no need to sweep it, you now know what you need to tell them.

This post first appeared on https://www.superiorchimney.net

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Fireplaces are still popular heating sources for many homeowners. While they may not be as efficient as a furnace or heat pump, they deliver a charm and atmosphere that you can’t get with any other system. There’s a lot to think about when owning a fireplace, but one thing that often gets overlooked is the chimney cap. Chimney caps are one of those little features that play a huge considerable role in protecting your chimney and your home.

Let’s break down what this device does, why it’s so important, and how to know if yours needs to be repaired or replaced.

Benefits of a Chimney Cap

Keeps Out Rain and Snow

Without a cap, your chimney is basically a wide-open hole on the roof. Rain and snow can drip straight down into your flue, soaking the masonry or even causing water damage inside your home. Over time, that moisture leads to cracking, rust, and mold. A cap acts like an umbrella, keeping the weather where it belongs—outside.

Stops Animals From Moving In

Birds, squirrels, raccoons, you name it, love the idea of building a nest in your nice, warm chimney. The problem? Those nests block airflow, create fire hazards, and sometimes trap animals themselves. A properly installed cap with a screen keeps the critters out while allowing smoke to escape.

Prevents Downdrafts

Ever had smoke blow back into your living room on a windy day? That’s a downdraft, and it’s no fun. A chimney cap helps block strong gusts from pushing air and smoke down your flue, keeping your fire burning cleanly and your living room smelling like a home instead of a campfire.

Protects Against Sparks and Embers

A cap with a spark guard keeps little embers from flying out of your chimney and landing on your roof or yard. That’s a huge safety boost, especially in dry conditions.

Increases Chimney Lifespan

By keeping out moisture, animals, and debris, a cap reduces wear and tear on your chimney’s structure. Think of it as inexpensive insurance that saves you from major repairs down the line.

Signs Your Chimney Cap Needs Replacing

Just like anything else exposed to the elements, chimney caps don’t last forever. Here are the most common signs that your chimney cap has overstayed its welcome.

Visible Rust or Corrosion

If your cap is made of metal, rust is usually the first sign it’s breaking down. Once corrosion starts, it spreads quickly and can leave holes that defeat the purpose of having a cap in the first place.

Bent or Broken Mesh

The wire screen is what keeps critters and debris out. If it’s bent, torn, or missing sections, animals will find a way in, and sparks may sneak out.

Loose or Missing Cap

High winds, storms, or even age can loosen the screws holding your cap in place. If you notice it looks tilted, rattles in the wind, or worse, has disappeared, it’s time to call a chimney professional.

Water or Debris in the Fireplace

If you see leaves, twigs, or puddles of water in the firebox, chances are your cap isn’t doing its job. That’s a clear sign that it’s damaged or gone.

Strange Noises

Hear scratching or chirping from your chimney? That often means your cap’s screen is damaged, and some furry (or feathery) squatters have moved in.

A chimney cap is one of those small, inexpensive features that saves you a ton of trouble and money in the long run. Replacing a cap costs far less than repairing water damage, removing animal nests, or fixing a smoke-stained living room. Plus, it gives you peace of mind knowing your fireplace system is working safely and efficiently.

Call Northeastern Chimney, Inc. today to schedule a professional chimney and cap inspection. We’re the number one choice for chimney and fireplace services across central Connecticut.

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This post first appeared on https://www.mychimney.com

Let’s face it. Water is likely to enter your chimney. It comes in from the top; whether it is from rain or melting snow, it will find its way in. Our chimneys take a beating. The winters can be brutal with gusting winds, snow, and sleet. 

What Are The Causes of a Leaky Chimney?

• Cracked chimney crown. With age, the chimney crown can crack. The crown is made out of cement and is susceptible to cracks. 
• No Chimney cap. Without a chimney cap, water can drip into your chimney. Sometimes at large amounts. 
• Masonry and mortar deterioration. Over time, without proper sealant, masonry will deteriorate, causing cracks and spalling. Rain and snow seep into the cracks. During the winter, the freeze-thaw concept happens, causing cracks to increase. Those cracks let more water in.
• Wood siding. If your home has a wood chase with wood siding, knots in the wood, and cracks in the wood, it allows water to get in, causing leaks.  
• Leaking Flashing. Improperly installed or damaged chimney flashing will allow water to get in.

The summers are just as bad, with the summer heat and the occasional summer storm. Hurricanes can whip up quite a disaster.  

A leaky chimney is a different story. If your chimney crown has cracks, you do not have a chimney cap, or flashing is not installed correctly, water will get in and cause damage. These are the things that you can control. 

How will I know if I have A Leaky Chimney?

Here is what to look for.

• Water in the firebox. You should not have puddles of water in your firebox. 
• Discoloration on the exterior of your chimney. This is called efflorescence. It’s a white, chalky deposit that is derived from the salt in the bricks.
• A smell of mold and mildew. This musty smell is coming from water that has leaked into the chimney. It hasn’t had a chance to dry out, and mold has started to grow.
• You can see water damage on the ceiling or the walls near the chimney.

What Should I Do To Prevent a Leaky Chimney?

Along with your annual chimney sweep and inspection, consider applying a water sealant to your chimney. Our team at Northeastern Chimney is professionally trained to apply a quality sealant. Keeping up with the maintenance of your chimney is your best defense. 

Here is what you can do. 

• Water sealant.
• Annual Inspection.
• Annual Chimney Sweep.
• Watch for signs of water damage as noted above.

Scheduling with Northeastern Chimney is easy and quick. Let us help you manage the details of keeping your chimney dry and preventing damage. 

Professionals suggest that an annual Chimney sweep and inspection be conducted. When a problem arises, the best plan is to tackle it as soon as possible. This will cost you much less than if you let the damage to the fireplace and bricks go on too long.

Schedule your inspection or cleaning soon by calling Northeastern Chimney. We service all of Hartford, Tolland, and Litchfield Counties. All our chimney technicians are trained and qualified. We are active in the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG). 

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This post first appeared on https://www.mychimney.com